Computer program "new era in cancer research

Scientists have developed a mathematical model which they believe could help to end the uncertainty involved in cancer treatment.

Experts at Dundee University have revealed that the computer simulation can predict how a cancer tumour might spread by using the shape and location of the tumour within the body to calculate its likely growth, BBC News reports.

According to Dr Sandy Anderson, who developed the model, it could help with the surgical removal of tumours and be used to improve cancer treatment as the tumour develops.

"In the future, this research could help tailor treatment in a patient-specific manner, with the mathematical model being an additional weapon in the armoury against cancer," he said.

The university's research, which is published in December's issue of the journal Cell, is currently being validated by scientists at Nashville's Vanderbilt University and the US institution's Professor Vito Quaranta said that the work represented "a new era in cancer research".

"With mathematics-driven oncology research, we will be able to determine which drugs will work at which stage," he told the BBC.